Four people meet on New Year's Eve and form a surrogate family to help one another weather the difficulties of their lives.
The film begins to make more sense and develop substance when it slows down.
At best, this is a cringey stab at black comedy redeemed by charismatic stars; at worst it’s a glib and manipulative punt on a subject that deserves more care.
Trivialising despair, it’s a depressing waste of a major cast, and an early bid for mess of the year.
It's never dull and has some touching moments.
Verdict: A long time ending.
A film which plays with fire, and walks away with third degree burns.
Interview: Jack Thorne, BAFTA-winning writer of A Long Way Down
General release. Check local listings for show times.
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